A Quick Look
Four SUNY Oneonta men's basketball players reached double digits in points tonight including 30 points for newcomer Michael Ortale Jr. (Bethlehem, NY/Bethlehem Central), as the Red Dragons eclipsed the century mark in a one-sided 105-76 win against cross city rival Hartwick College.  Tonight's contest was the season opener for both squads.
 
"It was awesome to be a part of a college basketball game again as it has been a long time," said sixth-year Head Coach Cameron Conover.  "We had a great crowd, and our guys were eager to step out on the court and we certainly appreciate all the support from the school and community.  Hopefully we will continue to have great crowds this season.  We were focused from the jump, and I am proud of our effort.  We will enjoy this win tonight, but tomorrow it is time to get back to work."
 
The Inside Story
The game was tight for most of the first half with all three lead changes happening during the opening 20 minutes.  Oneonta was in front 12-5 in the first five minutes before 11 unanswered by Hartwick put them ahead 16-12 two minutes later.  The run was capped with a three-pointer by Kevin Felasco.
 
A layup by sophomore Frankie Williams (Bronx, NY/Fannie Lou) off a turnover put Oneonta ahead to stay, as they seized the momentum enroute to a 58-35 lead at the break.  Williams finished the game with a collegiate high 24 points.
 
The Red Dragons emerged from halftime and continued to pile it on building its lead to as many as 35 points with just under six minutes remaining in the contest.
 
Just the Stats
Oneonta shot a blistering 64 percent from the floor including 10-of-18 from deep.  They dominated in the paint outscoring the Hawks 56-24 while also holding a 28-16 advantage on fast break points.
 
Joining Ortale Jr. and Williams in double figures was junior Dylan Trombley (Moriah, NY/Moriah) and senior Sean Nolan (Voorheesville, NY/Voorheesville) who contributed 13 and 11 points respectively.
 
The Hawks also had four players reach double digits in scoring led by Steven White's 18 points.
 
What's Next
Oneonta will host the Quality Inn Tip-Off tournament this Friday and Saturday.  The Red Dragons will take on SUNY Cobleskill on Friday night at 7:30pm in its opening game.